FDBusiness.com

Scotch whisky exports grew strongly, defying global economic uncertainty, in the first six months of 2011. Global shipments of Scotch whisky between January and June 2011 reached £1.8 billion, up 22% on the £1.47 billion achieved in the first half of 2010, according to figures released by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA).

The US remains the top export market by value for Scotch with shipments hitting £268 million, up from £233.7 million – an increase of around 14%. France, the second most valuable market, rose by 13% to £219.5 million.

Emerging markets are becoming increasingly important to Scotch whisky producers. Growth in Asia and South America was very strong. Shipments to Central and South America reached £214.4 million in the first six months of the year, a 49% jump on the same period in 2010. Exports to Asia increased by 33% to £422.5 million.

Taiwan is now a top five market for Scotch Whisky, with shipments growing to £70 million from £48 million. Shipments to Brazil rose by 56% to £44.8 million.

The volume of shipments grew in line with increased value. The equivalent of around 569 million bottles was exported in the first six months, an increase of 19% to the end of June. On an annualised basis – July 2010 to June 2011 – volume was up almost 5%. This figure reflects the slowdown at the end of 2010 due to economic uncertainty, followed by a growth in confidence among producers bolstered by increased demand from emerging markets.

Gavin Hewitt, chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, comments: “While traditional export markets remain important, we are making excellent headway in other regions. Consumer confidence is strong. Recent breakthroughs in trade relations will help further. A Free Trade Agreement with South Korea and better legal protection for Scotch whisky in India and Turkey give optimism for further growth.”